Oceanos (2016) Board Game – Board Game Guys

Oceanos is a board game designed by Antoine Bauza and published by IELLO in in 2016. The game is set in the depths of the ocean, where players take on the roles of captains of submarines exploring the sea. With a combination of open drafting, set collection, and simultaneous action selection mechanics, Oceanos offers a unique gaming experience for 2 to 5 players.

Game Components of Oceanos

Submarines, each composed of five upgradable modules

Cards for drafting and module upgrades

Underwater exploration tokens and boards

How To Setup Oceanos

To set up Oceanos, each player selects a submarine and its initial modules. The game board is arranged to represent the underwater environment, and cards are shuffled and placed within reach of all players. Players start with a set of basic modules and resources, ready to dive into the depths.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Card Drafting: Players draft cards to upgrade their submarine modules and enhance their exploration capabilities

Modular Board: The underwater environment is represented by a modular board that changes with each playthrough

Upgradable Submarines: Each submarine has five modules that can be upgraded throughout the game

Objective: The goal is to spot the most underwater phenomena and collect the most points by the end of the game

Player Experience

In Oceanos, players take on the role of submarine captains, navigating the depths to discover hidden treasures and underwater wonders. The game combines strategic planning with the excitement of exploration, as players must balance resource management with the need to explore and upgrade their submarines.

Pros

Unique Card Drafting Mechanic: Offers an original take on card drafting that enhances gameplay

High Replayability: The modular board and random card draws ensure no two games are the same

Visual Appeal: The game features beautiful, vibrant artwork that immerses players in the underwater world

Cons

Steep Learning Curve: The game’s mechanics, especially the card drafting and module upgrades, can be complex for new players

Resource Management: Players need to manage resources carefully, which can be overwhelming at times

Personal Thoughts on Oceanos

Oceanos is ideal for fans of strategic exploration games and those who enjoy a mix of resource management and modular board mechanics. It is suited for players who appreciate a game with high replayability and a unique twist on traditional mechanics. However, it may not be the best fit for casual gamers or those looking for a quick, simple game experience.

We are supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, at no extra cost for you. Learn more.